Decking

How Much Does a Cement Pool Deck Cost?

A cement pool deck provides one of the most durable solutions to pool access. A reliable deck helps in maintaining the cleanliness of a pool when it is in use by limiting the introduction of ground material into the water. At the same time, a well-constructed deck provides decorative value to a property while enhancing use of the outdoor setting. Not only does a deck provide a resting place for those taking a break from swimming, but it can also be an excellent space for outdoor entertaining.

The Costs

Minimum pricing for cement is approximately $70 per cubic yard

Maximum pricing for cement is approximately $85 per cubic yard

Materials Used in Constructing Cement Pool Decks

Cement pool decks are constructed in similar fashion to concrete slabs. The ground under the future deck must be leveled, and subbase may be added to provide stability to the area. Subbase may cost between $10 and $15 per cubic yard. Forms are placed to define the deck area. Wood forms are typically used, costing between $1 and $2 per linear foot of material. The metal stakes that are used to hold the forms in place can range from $3 to $5 apiece. Reinforcing materials are often used in and under concrete to add strength to the final area, and pricing for these materials can range from $0.10 to $0.25 per square foot.

Tools for Finishing A Cement Deck

Wet concrete is leveled out with a flat board, usually a two-by-four, which can range from $1 to $5 in price. A bull float is used for smoothing the leveled material from a standing position, and sliders may be needed to access central parts of a hardening pool deck for addressing minor flaws with a hand trowel. Pricing on finishing tools can range from $10 to $100 based on the specific item and its quality. However, it's important to recognize that in cases of pouring a large deck, it's more common to enlist a concrete contractor. In these instances, cement masons working on such a job will bring their own tools according to project needs.

Specialty Finishes and Effects

Pricing on a cement pool deck can vary according to the level of decorative emphasis included in the final product. A basic deck without special effects will be less costly than a deck designed with steps, multiple levels, stamped imprints, exposed aggregate effects, mixed-in color or other architectural features. A basic finish should include brooming, a technique involving the use of a broom to leave a slight texture in the surface of finished concrete, to ensure that the final area isn't dangerously slick when the pool is in use.

Today's cement pool decks aren't limited to simple rectangular designs. Pliable forms make it possible to incorporate curved areas into the borders and other portions of a concrete deck. This can be accomplished to complement the design of an in-ground pool, and special finishes can be used to accent such areas more intensely.

Safety Systems and Pool Deck Projects

Many homeowners are concerned about safety issues related to pool access, and some choose to install sturdy fencing around a pool perimeter to protect younger family members from accidentally falling into the water. In some cases, such fencing may be engineered into the poured concrete. This will raise costs of a project, but for many, the safety benefits far outweigh the costs.

Advantages of Having A Cement Deck

With cement, the area around a pool is well-defined. Maintenance issues are reduced by the elimination of dirt, grass and rocks directly next to the water. Additionally, there is less opportunity for these materials to be introduced by swimmers. A cement deck can be designed to drain storm water away from a pool so that additional chemistry and cleanliness issues aren't experienced. A large deck can extend into a patio and entertaining area, creating the opportunity for multiple uses of the space. Advanced architectural effects with cement also make it possible to achieve beautiful results while enhancing property value.

Disadvantages of Cement Pool Decks

A large-scale concrete pour can be costly, and preparation time can leave the outside area inaccessible. Finished concrete can be extremely slippery when wet, making a deck that is not finished properly somewhat hazardous to those using a pool. Additionally, concrete can be uncomfortable during the swimming season because of its ability to retain heat. Some homeowners opt for a small perimeter of concrete around the outside edge of a pool so that there will be a basic border without excessive costs, comfort issues and safety risks. Others opt for solutions like wood decking around their swimming areas.

Cement is one of the most common materials chosen for constructing a pool deck. Pricing is affected by a variety of factors, and personal preferences and budgets play the biggest part in determining how these factors will affect the final costs of a project. Once poured, cement can be difficult to remove, making it critical to plan carefully and to consider the expertise required for the project before moving forward.